What Happened This Year 1934

Born in 1934

Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed

Somali President and politician
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

Served as President of Somalia from 2004 to 2008, leading the Transitional Federal Government during a period of political instability. Held the position of the military leader of the Somali National Alliance and played a significant role in the civil war. Worked towards establishing a federal government and promoting peace in the region.

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Marina Salye

Geologist and Russian politician
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
March 21st, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent geologist and politician, contributed to the development of environmental legislation in Russia. Worked at the Institute of Geology and the Department of Natural Resources at the Russian State Geological Prospecting University. Became an influential member of the State Duma, focusing on environmental policies and sustainable development. Participated in numerous international conferences related to geology and environmental protection. Advocated for the protection of natural resources during her political career.

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Yves Coppens

Anthropologist and paleoanthropologist
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 2022 2 years ago — 88 years old

Contributions to human evolution studies included excavation at the Olduvai Gorge and the discovery of the fossilized remains of early hominins. Worked on the team that discovered 'Lucy', an Australopithecus afarensis specimen. Engaged in teaching and research throughout his career, focusing on human origins and the evolutionary process. Authored numerous scientific papers and books on paleoanthropology, furthering the understanding of early human life.

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Jim Ed Brown

American country singer and songwriter
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2015 9 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter gained recognition through a successful solo career and as a member of the Grand Ole Opry. The music career spanned several decades, starting in the 1950s with early hits. A member of the Brown Trio, other collaborations included work with Helen Cornelius. The artists produced classic songs and contributed to the evolution of the genre. In addition to recording, involvement in radio and television enhanced visibility and reach across audiences during and after his active years.

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George Odlum

Saint Lucian politician and diplomat
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2003 21 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent Saint Lucian politician, served as Minister of Finance and Minister of External Affairs. Odlum played a key role in shaping the foreign policy of Saint Lucia during the 1980s, particularly in Caribbean integration efforts. He was appointed as the country's ambassador to the United Nations, representing Saint Lucia on global platforms and engaging in various diplomatic negotiations. His tenure was marked by efforts to promote economic development and social equity in the region.

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Maryse Condé

Guadeloupean novelist and playwright
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 2024 0 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent novelist, critic, and playwright, contributions span several decades. Notable works include "Windward Heights," "The Story of the Cannibal Woman," and "I, Tituba: Black Witch of Salem." Condé's literature often explores themes of identity, history, and the complexities of the Caribbean experience. In addition to fiction, contributions to literary criticism and analysis reflect insights into postcolonial literature. Recognition includes the 2018 New Academy Prize in Literature, awarded in lieu of the Nobel Prize that year. The writer's academic career included teaching positions at various universities around the world.

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John Keegan

Historian and journalist; The Face of Battle
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent historian and journalist, contributed significantly to military history. Authored several influential books, including 'The Face of Battle', which offered a new perspective on the experience of combat. Worked as a military journalist for major publications, analyzing contemporary conflicts alongside historical narratives. Served as a lecturer in military history at the University of Kingston.

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Pedro Vázquez Colmenares

Mexican politician and Governor of Oaxaca
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
September 24th, 2012 12 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the Governor of Oaxaca, contributing to the region's political landscape during the late 20th century. Vázquez Colmenares was a lawyer before entering politics, shaping various local policies and initiating key reforms in the state. His administration focused on educational improvements and infrastructure development. He also played a role in the national political arena, influencing local governance.

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Mohamed Farrah Aidid

Somalian general and politician
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1996 28 years ago — 62 years old

A military general and politician emerged as a prominent figure during the Somali Civil War. He led the United Somali Congress, which played a significant role in the overthrow of the Siad Barre regime in 1991. Following the regime's fall, he engaged in power struggles in the country, claiming the title of president of Somalia in 1995. His leadership was marked by conflict with rival factions and international efforts to stabilize the country during the late 20th century. Significant military engagement occurred under his command during the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993, where attempts by U.S. forces to capture him led to intense fighting and casualties.

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